Important next steps for victims & families of the Ohio State Fair ride malfunction tragedy
The opening day of the Ohio State Fair in Columbus took a tragic turn when one of the rides malfunctioned and caused some passengers to be ejected from 30 feet in the air.
The medical director at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center said that the event was not unlike what happens in a high-speed motor vehicle crash when passengers are ejected.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all victims, especially the family of the 18-year-old man who landed 50 feet from the ride and died on impact.
According to Ohio Govenor John Kasich, all Ohio State Fair rides will be closed on Thursday and he will be on hand to speak with anyone affected by the accident.
Investigations into why the Ohio State Fair Fire Ball accident occurred in the first place have already started and were launched by the Govenor’s office, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the Ohio Department of Agriculture. The Ohio Department of Agriculture did tell the Record-Courier that they worked long hours the week leading up to the fair to complete safety inspections on the 72 rides after rain and flash flooding caused delays. In charge of the rides is carnival company Amusements of America, whose New Jersey-based traveling carnival company’s route stretches from Miami to New York and Tennessee to the Carolinas.
Anyone involved in any type of carnival or state fair accident or injury must remember the following to protect their legal rights:
- While graphic video may be difficult to watch, it is important that any and all video and photographs be preserved
- Insurance coverage will play a huge role in the payment of medical bills, pain and suffering, and funds for surviving family members. The state of Ohio mandates that amusement ride owners are required to have no less than $500,000 in insurance coverage when one person is injured or killed in an accident and $1 million in coverage for amusement ride accidents involving more than one person.
- Other insurance coverage may be available through the ride manufacturer, the Ohio State Fairgrounds property, the company setting up the rides, and the entity responsible for maintaining or inspecting the malfunctioning ride.
- Never sign anything without first having it reviewed by an attorney experienced in Ohio amusement ride injury accidents. They will be able to ensure that you are not agreeing to terms that could hurt you or your family in the long run.
How an Ohio amusement ride attorney can help
The attorneys at Boyk Law have extensive experience helping clients who have been injured on amusement rides – including many at Cedar Point – and provide all families with complimentary case evaluations. Our attorneys will, among other things:
- Preserve evidence
- Gather all investigative reports by any and all institutions involved
- Obtain photographs and video
- Uncover any and all insurance policies to pay for expenses related to the accident
- Hold all parties accountable for the pain and suffering families have had to endure
Our No Fee Guarantee allows families the peace of mind that we will fight to obtain maximum compensation for all injuries and loss of life and we would be happy to discuss all of your options to protect your legal rights. Call 419-241-1395, Live Chat on our site, or email cboyk@charlesboyk-law.com today to schedule your free appointment.
